By Sandra Bauer, Deputy Chief Executive and Head of Policy, Partnerships and Projects, Neighbourhood Watch

It is a horrible truth to acknowledge but the dangers that women and girls face are getting worse. The National Police Chiefs’ Council says that nearly all forms of violence against women and girls (VAWG) are expected to continue to rise in the coming year. 

And that is why we are supporting both White Ribbon Day on 25 November and the Orange the World campaign (25 November – 10 December) to realise the change we all want to make. Thanks to reporting from the Coalition to End Violence Against Women and Girls, we know that: 

  • Almost one in three women will experience domestic abuse, and sexual offences are at the highest level recorded.
  • Every four days a woman in the UK is murdered by a partner or ex-partner.
  • More than 90% of perpetrators of rape and sexual assault are known to their victims.
  • One in two rapes against women are carried out by a partner or ex-partner.
  • One in three adult survivors of rape experience it in their own home.
  • Women who can’t access public funds, such as welfare support or housing assistance are three times more likely to experience VAWG.

These are shocking figures; but we believe that crimes like this can and must be prevented and everyone has a part to play.

The National Policing Statement says 1 in 20 people are estimated to be perpetrators of VAWG each year, with the actual number thought to be significantly higher. 

Both the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) and the College of Policing have reported that while progress has been made, the police response to violence against women and girls has been inconsistent across the country. And now the issue has been formally recognised as a national emergency. 

A YouGov survey found that 73% of the public think that more should be done to tackle VAWG. This public concern shows there is a real appetite to address this problem. That's why we need allies, caring neighbours, friends, family who can and will act. 

We’ve produced 16 actions for people who want to make a difference, you can do as many as you are able. From fundraising for a local charity, to joining our free webinar, or learning how to protect yourself online, it all counts. 

The perception most people have of Neighbourhood Watch is very positive. Our members report greater feelings of safety and connection to their communities. But neighbourliness isn’t just nice, it’s necessary.  If we all look out for each other, call out bad behaviour, check in with people, report concerns, then perhaps we can make the UK a safer place for everyone.